Osmeña: City to tolerate firecracker trade at malls

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña said he will be tolerant to all firecracker traders in malls and other establishments this yuletide season.

He said he will follow the general principle of the government to not interfere with private establishments in their way of selling firecrackers.

"One, as a general principle, I believe in free enterprise, unless there's a clear and present danger, government should not interfere in the business of other people. We only come in to regulate for safety and other considerations. I'm trying to create the best government, that's what I'm trying to say. We have too much government already," he said.

The mayor said though that he is just waiting for any directive from the national government as to the regulation of firecracker trade.

"That's why we're elevating the matter to the Department of Interior and Local Government center or somebody there. Tell us what's the actual prevailing decision of the government," Osmeña said.

Meanwhile, Osmeña assured the public that the selling of firecrackers at the South Road Properties as part of the Kasadya sa SRP will be in order.

The city government allotted at least 50 firecracker stalls with the proper spacing, following the set of rules and regulations in selling firecrackers to avoid incidents such as fire, among others.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office will deploy personnel in the area to ensure order.

Earlier, CCDRRMO head Nagiel Bañacia said they will put up fire extinguishers and other equipment in the area.

The only role of the city government is to supervise the trading activity.

It has been agreed earlier upon the approval of Osmeña to let the bidder manage the entire activities under the Kasadya sa SRP, including the carnival rides.

Minda Pantilata of the Three Z Carnival that won the public bidding said they will hold a press conference as to the official date of the opening of the Kasadya sa SRP.

Pantilata said they are now accepting letters from those interested to sell firecrackers during the event period which will run on December 23, 24, 25, 30 and 31.

Being the winner of the bidding, the Three Z Carnival will be paying the city P2.6 million for the venture. (FREEMAN)